In a recent op-ed, Canadian Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Candace Laing reinforces a clear message: a strong private sector is the foundation of Canada’s economy and the quality of life Canadians expect.

Businesses drive investment, innovation, job creation, and productivity - and they generate the revenues that fund public services and community infrastructure.

The article outlines key challenges holding Canada back, including slow productivity growth, regulatory complexity, delayed infrastructure and resource projects, and intensifying global competition for capital. While governments play an important role, the focus must be on creating the right conditions for businesses to invest and grow - predictable policy, efficient approvals, skilled labour, and a competitive operating environment.

Why This Matters for Southeast Alberta

For Southeast Alberta businesses, these issues are not theoretical. Slowed commercial growth, development delays, workforce shortages, and rising input costs directly impact local employers’ ability to expand, attract investment, and remain competitive. From agriculture and manufacturing to energy, logistics, retail, and tourism, regional growth depends on timely decisions and policies that recognize rural and regional realities.

From an advocacy perspective, this reinforces the importance of our Chamber’s ongoing work, alongside provincial and national advocacy, to:
 - Support faster, more predictable regulatory and permitting processes
 - Advocate for workforce development, skills training, and talent attraction that aligns with industry needs
 - Push for strategic investments in transportation, energy, and trade-enabling infrastructure
 - Ensure regional voices are included in national economic decision-making

The takeaway is simple: economic growth starts locally. When Southeast Alberta businesses succeed, communities thrive. A policy environment that supports private sector confidence and investment is essential to sustaining jobs, affordability, and long-term prosperity across our region.

The positive influence of business on Canadians’ lives extends beyond jobs and GDP. Businesses contribute to well-being, health and prosperity through activities such as scholarships, employer-funded benefits and health plans, the sponsorship of local events, initiatives and teams, along with charitable giving to bolster initiatives in our region.

To us, it makes sense that taking care of the business community and taking care of Albertans & Canadians alike goes hand in hand. Business success is a force for societal good. It lifts us all up.

Read the Canadian Chamber op-ed and policy matters on impacts that businesses have on our economy and prosperity.

View our active policies and advocacy insights to find out more about our priorities and join our Chamber to help support our movement